Sumit Nagal ready for a tough Davis Cup qualifier clash against Korea

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India’s top singles player Sumit Nagal believes the upcoming Davis Cup qualifier against South Korea could ultimately be decided by sheer determination, noting that the slow court conditions will become increasingly demanding as the day goes on.

Nagal is scheduled to take on South Korean star Hyeon Chung in Friday’s second singles match. The tie will begin with Dhakshineswar Suresh facing Korea’s highest-ranked singles player, Kwon Soon-woo, in the opening fixture. Nagal anticipates a tough battle against Chung, an opponent he knows well from past practice sessions and doubles partnerships.

“Individual results do not matter in the Davis Cup. At home, he will come with his best. He’s a great player; I have grown up watching him, I have practised with him a lot of times and have even played doubles alongside him. There will be good points,” Nagal said following the official draw ceremony.

“By the time I play, it will be 4 pm, and the court will become even slower. It will come down to who wants it more. There is no one specific weapon to use against the rivals; it’s basically who wants it more on the day,” he added.

Hyeon Chung, who was selected for the second singles slot ahead of Hong Seong-chan, praised Nagal’s baseline consistency.

“I know him. He is a good player from the baseline, which means I have to move a lot in this match,” Hyeon said.

South Korea captain Jong-Sam Chung defended choosing the former world No. 19, citing his big-match background.

“Hyeon has the experience behind him. He will play a crucial role and give a fantastic result to the team,” the captain said.

Slowness of the court could play a part in the result

In doubles, N Sriram Balaji will team up with late addition Niki Poonacha to take on South Korea’s Uisung Park and Jisung Nam. Poonacha was brought into the squad to replace the injured Yuki Bhambri.

Nam confirmed the court speed would not alter his tactical approach.

“Despite the slow court, I am going to play my net game the way I play. Nothing changes for me,” Nam said.

(With inputs from PTI)

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